admin
Ryerson University has unveiled the design concept for its new Photography Gallery and Research Centre, a project intended to herald the transformation of downtown Gould Street. Designed by Diamond + Schmitt Architects, the 1,860-square-metre facility is part of an expansion and redesign of the existing School of Image Arts building.
School of Image Arts building will become Photography Gallery and Research Centre
TORONTO
Ryerson University has unveiled the design concept for its new Photography Gallery and Research Centre, a project intended to herald the transformation of downtown Gould Street.
Designed by Diamond + Schmitt Architects, the 1,860-square-metre facility is part of an expansion and redesign of the existing School of Image Arts building.
The focal point of the renovated ground floor is the new gallery, which will house the university’s historical black and white photography collection.
The research centre will be located on the second floor.
A Ryerson spokesperson said a date has not been set for groundbreaking; nor has a decision been made on whether a general contractor or construction manager will be retained.
Construction cost estimates have not been released.
In a news release, the university said an additional 1,200 square metres of study, teaching and academic space will be created by maximizing the building’s available footprint.
“We’re proud that the open, accessible design is a step forward in transforming Gould Street into a people-centred, pedestrian-gathering place,” said Ryerson president Sheldon Levy.
The School of Image Arts building will be re-clad in glass. A new extended colonnade will signal the gallery entrance overlooking Lake Devo, one of the most popular public spaces on campus.
The ground floor will include a café as well as a new transparent entrance.
“We have designed a Photography Gallery and Research Centre which will undoubtedly be a shining star in the city’s cultural firmament,” said Donald Schmitt, principal-in-charge of the project at his firm.
The project will be the first Ryerson building under construction since the launch of the university’s master plan, a flexible framework for growth and revitalization of the campus and a catalyst for renewal of the surrounding downtown neighbourhood.
Ryerson said the building design reflects the major themes of the master plan: intensification, making efficient use of small and valuable urban properties; “people first,” with a focus on creating a pedestrian-friendly campus including open green spaces and informal meeting places; and design excellence, a commitment to new and inspirational academic and student spaces.
Recent Comments
comments for this post are closed